Shrimp Creole I

Shrimp Creole I Recipe from USA - Delicious Seafood Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Shrimp Creole is a classic dish that originated in Louisiana, known for its bold flavors and spicy kick. This dish is a delicious combination of shrimp, vegetables, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce served over hot rice.

History

Shrimp Creole has its roots in Creole cuisine, which is a blend of French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences. This dish has been a staple in Louisiana for centuries, with each family adding their own twist to the recipe.

Ingredients

1 tbsp reduced calorie margarine
2 cups finely chopped onions
0.5 cup finely chopped bell pepper
0.33 cup finely chopped celery
2 large tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped (about 1 cup)
1 clove garlic, minced
2 cups seafood stock or water
3 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp salt
1 tsp paprika
0.5 tsp ground red pepper
0.13 tsp ground white pepper
0.13 tsp ground oregano
0.13 tsp ground thyme
0.13 tsp dried basil leaves, crushed
0.5 lb (227 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup hot cooked rice

How to prepare

In a 6 qt (5.68 liter) pot, melt the margarine over medium heat.
Add the onions, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add the remaining ingredients except for the shrimp and rice.
Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add the shrimp and cook, uncovered, for 10 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink.
Remove from the heat and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve over hot rice.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or okra for extra flavor and texture.
Substitute chicken or sausage for the shrimp for a different twist on the dish.
Add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to devein the shrimp before cooking to remove any grit or impurities.

- Adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste preferences.

- For a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.

- Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor, so try to use ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs whenever possible.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Shrimp Creole over hot cooked rice with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing

- Simmering

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter can be used instead of margarine.

- Canned tomatoes can be used instead of fresh tomatoes.

- Chicken broth can be used instead of seafood water.

Make Ahead Tips

Shrimp Creole can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Shrimp Creole with a crisp white wine or a cold beer to complement the spicy flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

200

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 28g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 4g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 18g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

- Vitamin C: 45%

- Calcium: 8%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Shellfish

Summary

Shrimp Creole is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for a balanced meal.

Summary

Shrimp Creole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a rich tomato sauce and tender shrimp, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Shrimp Creole. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary in her cozy kitchen. Mary was known for her delicious Southern recipes, and I always looked forward to our cooking sessions together.

As we chatted and sipped on sweet tea, Mary pulled out a tattered old cookbook from her shelf. She flipped through the pages with a smile on her face, finally landing on a page that seemed well-loved and stained with years of use. "Ah, here it is," she exclaimed, pointing to the recipe for Shrimp Creole. "This is a family favorite, and I know you'll love it."

I watched intently as Mary gathered the ingredients and began to cook. The smell of garlic, onions, and bell peppers filled the air, and my mouth watered in anticipation. I helped her stir the pot and tasted the rich, flavorful sauce as it simmered on the stove.

As we sat down to enjoy the meal, I took my first bite of the Shrimp Creole. The combination of tender shrimp, spicy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs was like nothing I had ever tasted before. I savored each bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn such a special recipe from my dear friend.

From that day on, Shrimp Creole became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, each time thinking of Mary and the wonderful memories we shared in her kitchen. Over the years, I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different seasonings and ingredients to make it my own.

As I continued to perfect my Shrimp Creole recipe, I shared it with friends and family who raved about its delicious flavor. They would ask for the recipe, and I would gladly pass it along, knowing that it would bring joy to their tables just as it had to mine.

I often think back to that summer day in Mary's kitchen, where my love for cooking and sharing recipes was truly ignited. I am grateful for the lessons she taught me, not just in cooking, but in friendship and generosity as well.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing a pot of Shrimp Creole for dinner, I can't help but smile. The aroma of garlic and tomatoes fills the air, bringing back memories of that special day with Mary. I know that she is looking down on me, proud of the cook I have become and the joy I bring to others through my food.

And as I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Shrimp Creole with my loved ones, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food and good company. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, but it is the memories and stories behind the recipes that truly make them special.

So here's to you, Mary, and to all the friends and family who have shared their recipes and their love with me over the years. May we continue to cook, share, and savor the flavors of life together for many years to come. Cheers to Shrimp Creole, a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart and on my table.